The Stratford Elks (11-0) will travel to face the Stamford Bulldogs (9-1) in the second round of the 2023 UIL 2A D1 Texas State Football Championships on Friday, November 17th at 7pm ET in Stamford, TX.
What it is: Texas High School Football
Matchup: Stratford Elks vs. Stamford Bulldogs
Time: Friday Nov 17, 2023, 7pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 UIL 2A D1 Texas State Football Championships
Round: Second Round
Locations: Stamford, TX
Live Stream: Watch here
The Elks are coming off a first-round bye in the playoffs. They are led by quarterback Bryce Braden, who has thrown for 1,395 yards and 21 touchdowns this season. Braden is also a threat on the ground, with 76.0 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Elks have a balanced offense, averaging 436.0 total yards per game. They are also a good defensive team, allowing only 20.0 points per game. The Elks are led on defense by Braden, who has 121 tackles and 2.2 sacks this season.
The Bulldogs are coming off a hard-fought victory over the Shallowater Mustangs in the first round of the playoffs. They are led by running back Jared Brady, who has rushed for 63.3 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. Brady is also a threat in the passing game, with 300 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
The Bulldogs have a run-heavy offense, averaging 391.5 total yards per game. They are also a good defensive team, allowing only 20.0 points per game. The Bulldogs are led on defense by Kaston Vega, who has 123 tackles and 0.5 sacks this season.
The Stratford Elks and Stamford Bulldogs have never met on the football field before.
The Stratford Elks are the favorites in this game. They have a better offense and a better defense than the Stamford Bulldogs. The Elks are also playing at a neutral site, which gives them a slight advantage.
The Stamford Bulldogs will need to pressure Braden and force him into making mistakes. They will also need to find a way to slow down Brady and the Bulldogs’ running game.
In the end, I predict that the Stratford Elks will win a close game, 35-28.
The key to this game will be which team can force the other into making mistakes. The Stratford Elks have a better defense and a more experienced team, so they have the edge in this category.
The Stamford Bulldogs will need to play a perfect game to have a chance to win. They will need to protect Braden and give him time to throw the ball. They will also need to find a way to slow down Brady and the Elks’ running game.
I predict that the Stratford Elks will win a close game, 35-28. The Elks are the better team and they have the experience to win.
